Spinal injury

Posted On Thursday, October 15, 2009   


If you suspect a back or neck (spinal) injury, do not move the affected person. Permanent paralysis and other serious complications can result.
 
You must assume a person has a spinal injury if:
  • There's evidence of a head injury resulting in unconsciousness.
  • The person complains of severe pain in his or her neck or back.
  • The person won't move his or her neck.
  • An injury has exerted substantial force on the back or head.
  • The person complains of weakness, numbness or paralysis or lacks control of his or her limbs, bladder or bowel.
  • The neck or back is twisted or positioned oddly.
In the event of a spinal injury, the goal of first aid is not to treat the person, but to keep them in the same position till professional medical help is available. The person should be kept as still as possible, with heavy towels on either side of the head and neck to prevent movement. If the person shows no signs of circulation, then CPR should begin immediately. However, do not tilt the person’s head back. Instead, grasp the jaw gently with the fingers and lift it forward. If the person is vomiting or choking on blood or in danger of further injury, then roll the person very gently, using two people so that the head, neck and back are aligned while the rolling is in progress.



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